Today’s durable, eco-friendly – and just plain gorgeous – wallpapers give paint, and even architectural details, a run for their money.

There are a bazillion types of wallpaper out there – vinyl, paper, grasscloth. But the nonwoven variety has captured our attention. It’s user-friendly, durable, and an environmentally kinder choice, because nonwovens are typically made from fibrous materials, not vinyl.

What really ratchets up its cool factor is that nonwoven wallpaper can be reused and doesn’t tear. Paper, for instance, can tear easily, especially during removal.

Tip: When it’s time to move, take your nonwoven wallpaper with you. It earned the nickname the “renter’s wallpaper,” because it’s easy to remove without chemicals or tools.

More nonwoven facts:

Won’t contract or expand when exposed to moisture from wallpaper adhesive or to humid conditions.

Breathes and this inhibits mold growth.

Washable and durable making it a great choice for households with kids, dogs, and a lot of traffic.

Tin ceiling tile wallpaper. Tin would cost thousands to install while a 56 sq. ft. roll of the paintable stuff costs about $20. There are also photorealistic choices out there, which look like the real deal. But keep in mind photo realistic wallpapers are a more expensive option. Here’s a idea using tin ceiling wallpaper to jazz up and protect staircase risers.

is an NYC-based writer who’s obsessed with maximizing every inch of her urban dwelling. She’s a former fashionista who has worked for Lucky Magazine and InStyle. She recently traded her high heels and Fashion Week pass for a drill and bandsaw. Follow Deirdre on Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.